Save Money Wisely Ahead of Your Travels

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Travelling is something we all dream of, no matter how adventurous we are. Whether you’re thinking of a domestic break over a long weekend or a year-long round-the-world adventure, escaping the humdrum of everyday life – even if only for a few days – does cost money. With a little foresight and forward planning though, your break needn’t cost the Earth.

It’s easy to look forward to the palm-fringed beaches, luxurious hotels or stunning views, but the reality of financial planning should not be ignored. If done effectively, you can really make the most of your trip, safe in the knowledge that you’re making your money go further. By taking advantage of a cash ISA, for example, you can put some money away and earn relatively high rates of interest ahead of your departure date, while opting for a bank account that doesn’t charge you to access your money while abroad is another recommended prudent step.

If you possess an unquenchable thirst for adventure but are working to a tight budget, why not travel to India? While the South Asian nation may be going from strength to strength economically, it hasn’t lost any of its charm and fortunately, its famously low prices. Because of the sub continent’s vastness, there is obviously a huge amount to explore – from the Himalayan foothills and plains of the north to the palm trees, beaches and jungle-like backwaters of the south.

No trip to India would be complete without a visit to the Taj Mahal – revered as the world’s most beautiful building. Don’t be fooled by the touts outside who will charge a fee for taking you to the front of the queue and offer a discounted ticket – just head to the official ticket office and join the (relatively short) queue reserved for foreign visitors.

India may be notoriously cheap, but very few things should be purchased at face value. If you really want to make your money go as far as possible, you’ll need to master the art of haggling. Not only will you be able to save a few rupees here and there, you’ll have great fun trying to knock the prices down and interacting with the locals.

Perhaps you’re looking for a destination slightly closer to home – if so, somewhere in Europe will no doubt fit the bill. With a vast array of destinations, cultures, landscapes and temperatures, the continent is able to satisfy any holidaymaker’s demands. With exchange rates in the eurozone not particularly favourable, it makes sense to travel to one of the non-eurozone countries – which could mean exploring a lesser-trodden, and cheaper, nation. It’s a win-win situation.

By taking advantage of one of the many easy access accounts, you can make your money go further ahead of your trip, and look forward to having access to your cash whenever you need it. With certain banks not charging you for withdrawals when you’re overseas, you can look forward to having a little more cash in your wallet to really make the most of your adventure – no matter how big or small it is.